Olympia Ancient Stadium

Olympia Stadium: The Ancient Stadium in Olympia Peloponesse, Greece

The Ancient Stadium in Olympia Greece: The stadium of Ancient Olympia, with a capacity of about 20,000 spectators, was a holy place for the ancient Greeks, as this is where the sport activities dedicated to Zeus were held. Originally, the stadium was constructed in such a manner that spectators could view the events from the slopes of Mount Cronion. But the stadium was gradually moved further east, and eventually it was placed outside the temple of Zeus.

Almost all seats were made of mud, and only a few stone seats were created especially for the officials. There was a vaulted passageway that connected the stadium and the sanctuary.

The ancient stadium also used to host the Heraia Games, which were games for women, held in honor of the goddess Hera. The racetrack of the stadium is over 200 meters long and nearly 30 to 34 meters wide.

The starting and finishing lines are indicated by two stone markers, which are about 193 meters apart.The south bank of the stadium was the podium for the judges, while on the north bank there was an altar dedicated to the priestess of goddess Demeter, who was the only woman allowed to watch the games. In 2004, the ancient stadium revived its ancient glory, when the hammer throw event of the Athens Olympics was held here.

Ancient Stadium Useful Links
	Map of Ancient Stadium with Google

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